3. INTRODUCTION
The Apache AH Mk1 is an attack helicopter
produced by AgustaWestland under license
from Boeing, for the British Army. It is a
derivative of the AH-64D Apache helicopter,
which is used by the US Army. The AH Mk1
was custom built to meet the mission
specific requirements of the UK armed
forces.
4.
5. DESIGN
The Apache AH Mk1 retains the same airframe design of the
standard AH-64D Apache, but with modifications to engines
and mission systems.
The major design changes include the integration of new
foldable rotor blades, weapon systems, countermeasures,
sensors and avionics equipment.
The crash-worthy fuselage was designed to withstand
12.7mm rounds.
It can even survive the hits of 23mm high-explosive
incendiary (HEI) rounds.
6.
7. COCKPIT
The helicopter has an overall length of 17.5m, rotor
diameter of 14.6m and a height of 4.9m.
The maximum take-off weight of the AH Mk1 is
9,525kg.
The fully-integrated glass cockpit accommodates
two crew members in tandem configuration.
The digital "MANPRINT" cockpit integrates
coloured multifunction displays (MFD), pilot night
vision sensor (PNVS) and integrated helmet and
display sighting system (IHADSS).
8.
9. AVIONICS
The avionics suite consists of integrated surveillance or
target acquisition equipment, including Longbow fire control
radar (FCR), TV, thermal imaging, direct view optics, laser
range finder / designator, laser spot tracker, automatic target
tracking and integrated GPS / INS / Doppler navigation
system.
The Longbow FCR allows the crew to find, track and engage
aerial and ground-based targets in all weather conditions.
The onboard communication systems provide the Apache
with command or attack co-ordination capabilities, through
real-time data sharing of weapon systems and mission
equipment.
10.
11. ENGINES
The Apache AH Mk1 is powered by two Rolls Royce-
Turbomeca RTM322 turboshaft engines.
Each engine develops a maximum take-off power of
1,566kW.
The twin-shaft engine is controlled by a full authority digital
engine control (FADEC) system.
The helicopter has the fuel capacity of 1,421L. The cruise
speed of the Ah Mk1 is 259km/h.
The maximum range is 537km.
The helicopter has an endurance of two hours and 45
minutes.